lasted for decades

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lasted for decades" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe an event, trend, or situation that continued over a long period of time, specifically spanning multiple decades. Example: "The tradition of storytelling in this community has lasted for decades, passed down from generation to generation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The territorial dispute, which has lasted for decades, flared last year after the Japanese government bought three of the five islands from their private owner.

The New York Times

This struggle lasted for decades.

The New Yorker

Their affair lasted for decades.

The New York Times

"And it lasted for decades".

The New York Times

"They're franchises that truly lasted for decades.

The Guardian - Tech

All these were examples of commons that lasted for decades.

The Economist

Extend the Jets' misery, which has lasted for decades.

The New York Times - Sports

Remnants of the dignity code lasted for decades.

The New York Times

"You're talking about an ongoing fraud that lasted for decades".

The New York Times

It was the beginning of their domination of the chess world, which lasted for decades.

The New York Times

Mr. Prigent's second career, in antiques, lasted for decades as his eyesight slowly diminished.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "lasted for decades", ensure that the subject of the phrase is something that can logically extend over such a long period, such as a tradition, a conflict, or a trend. Be specific about what "lasted for decades" to provide clear context.

Common error

Avoid using "lasted for decades" if the actual duration was closer to a few years or just over a decade. Using more precise language, such as "lasted for over a decade" or "lasted for fifteen years", adds credibility to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lasted for decades" functions as a modifier indicating the duration of an event, situation, or condition. It provides a sense of the length of time something has been in effect. Ludwig shows various examples in news and general contexts, indicating its broad usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

13%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lasted for decades" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that has continued for a long time, specifically over several decades. As Ludwig highlights, it's frequently used in news and media, as well as in encyclopedic and general writing contexts. Its primary function is to emphasize the prolonged duration of an event, situation, or trend. When using this phrase, ensure the context is clear and that the subject is something that can logically extend across decades. While alternatives like "persisted for decades" or "endured for decades" exist, "lasted for decades" is a neutral and widely accepted option. Ludwig AI affirms its usability in diverse writing scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

persisted for decades

Focuses on the continuing existence of something, often in the face of obstacles.

endured for decades

Emphasizes the ability of something to withstand hardship or difficulty over a long period.

continued for decades

A more neutral alternative, simply stating that something went on for a long time.

spanned decades

Highlights the range of time something covered.

stretched across decades

Implies that something extended or reached across a considerable length of time.

prevailed for decades

Suggests that a particular condition, custom, or belief was widespread or dominant for a long period.

extended over decades

Similar to 'spanned decades', focusing on the range of time.

reigned for decades

Describes a period of rule or dominance that continued for many years.

remained for decades

Highlights the prolonged presence or state of something.

carried on for decades

Suggests the continuation of an activity or practice.

FAQs

How can I use "lasted for decades" in a sentence?

Use "lasted for decades" to describe something that persisted for multiple decades. For example, "The political instability "lasted for decades", hindering economic growth."

What are some alternatives to "lasted for decades"?

You can use alternatives like "persisted for decades", "endured for decades", or "continued for decades" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it more accurate to say "lasted for decades" or "lasted several decades"?

"Lasted for decades" is a common and generally acceptable phrase. "Lasted several decades" is more precise, but both are correct. The choice depends on whether you need to emphasize the number of decades.

What is the difference between "lasted for decades" and "lasted nearly a century"?

"Lasted for decades" indicates a duration of multiple decades but less than a century. "Lasted nearly a century" suggests a duration approaching one hundred years. The key difference is the specific timeframe indicated.